100% Satisfaction Guarantee

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

We know that starting lessons is a big step and we want you to feel confident
booking with us. If you are not completely satisfied,
we'll help you find a new teacher or you can receive a refund for any unused lessons
within the first year from the date of purchase.

Derek delivers an exceptional lesson experience and ranks in the top
15% of our teachers nationwide.

Teaches students:

Ages 7+ and special needs

Teaching since:

January 2000

TEACHING MISSION: Capture the joy of playing music. Inspire continual playing and/or practice, regardless of student's lifestyle/career choices.
I start the first lesson with a student wish list (songs, goals, etc) and every lesson we take significant steps towards the goals.

Music Teacher

Jan 2000 - Present

Austin, Brooklyn, Boulder

Derek has been a professional educator for over 10 years. While many successful artists hide their tips and tricks, in fear of being copied and/or surpassed, Derek offers up his toolbox on a regular basis.

In late 2012 and early 2013, Derek was a guest clinician at several Ableton 9 launch parties (L.A., N.Y.C., Atlanta, Chicago, and Miami) where he performed and discussed his methods of using Ableton with live instrumentation.

He has taught as an adjunct teacher at the University of Colorado and Naropa University. Areas of focus included guitar, mandolin, music production, theory/ composition, banjo, classical guitar ensemble, and electric bass.

Magna Cum Laude

Supported Artist

National Association of Music Merchants

Jan 2013

NAMM is the not-for-profit association that promotes the pleasures and benefits of making music and strengthens the $17 billion global music products industry. NAMM's activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages.

American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers

Jan 2006

The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) is a membership association of more than 480,000 US composers, songwriters, lyricists and music publishers. The ASCAP is committed to nurturing music makers throughout their careers.

Patrick is enjoying learning banjo from Derek. He is patient and keeps him engaged. Such a nice guy.

Patrick
Nov 2, 2018

Banjo·Online

I enjoyed the lesson and learned a lot from derek.

Trey H.
Aug 20, 2018

Ukulele·In studio

Two Thumbs Up!

Rollin
May 26, 2017

Banjo·In studio

As an adult learning to play an instrument for the first time, very little has come naturally. I had tried two other instructors prior to Derek and felt as though I made little progress with them. Derek's approach is much more intuitive and the progress more obvious. great teacher with a sound approach.

Great teacher, very clear, patient communication. Can't wait for the next lesson!

John White
Oct 30, 2016

Mandolin·In studio

Talented guy, easy to understand and very patient!

Steve W.
Sep 30, 2016

Guitar·In studio

First lesson... the teach has the talent!!! I'm impressed.

Lee
Jun 7, 2016

Banjo·In studio

Great! He explains things well!

Marianne C.
Jan 21, 2016

Acoustic Guitar·In studio

As an 'older' beginner, Derek tuned into what it is I'm wanting and tailored my lessons perfectly!

Mary A.
Dec 3, 2015

Ukulele·In studio

Derek is very professional and friendly. Really knowledgeable about music, and he let me go at my own pace. Very patient! He's a great teacher!

Nancy V.
Jun 5, 2015

Ukulele·In studio

He's a kind person. He works with you for what you want to work at. He will introduce new things to your capacity.

Nancy V.
Apr 28, 2015

Ukulele·In studio

he has helped me to memorize portion of my favorite song while learning a certain strum with accent on 2nd beat and working on it. he has helped me to organize time to learn. shown me strum pattern and how many in between per note while following and artists song. he is helping me to be disciplined not to think about it and do it subconsciously which is wonderful to learn. i am learning a finger pattern. all will take time. when i stumble he picks the same note up with me as i start again and helps me grow thru my difficulties with explanation and repeating over and over with me until i get it. very patient and nice person with good teaching skills.